RSS Muslim Manch seeks AMU, Jamia VCs permission for shakhas

In a politically significant move ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, Muslim Rashtriya Manch (MRM) — an affiliate of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), wrote to the Vice -Chancellors of Aligarh Mulsim University and Jamia Milia Islamia seeking permission to hold regular ‘shakhas’ on their campuses. The move is seen as an attempt by the RSS to make inroads among ‘Muslim Ashrafiya’ (elites).

The AMU students Union has however opposed the move saying they would not allow it to happen, come what may.

“RSS is a known fascist organization which was banned twice by the Union government since independence. The AMU students will never permit an inch of land for the RSS and we will go to any extent to oppose its entry on AMU campus,’’ said AMU Students Union president Mashkoor Ahmed Usmani.

“Muslim Rashtriya Manch has written to vice chancellors of both universities seeking permission to hold Rs shakhas’ on respective campus. No political inferences should be drawn in our efforts as we are a social and cultural outifit and have nothing to do with electoral politics. We are confident of positive response from both varsities as it will be unique example for Rs Samrasta, (harmony) Sadbhavana (positive emotions) , Bhai chara(brotherhood),”said  National Media-in-charge of MRM, Yaseer Jilani.

“We want to establish direct contact with educated youth of minority community to dispel misconceptions about the RSS. The canard spread by different parties against RSS during the last several decades have to be cleared,’’ he further added..

Former president of AMU Students Union and presently a Samajwadi Party MLA, Nafis Khan  said, “I am not aware of the RSS move of holding shakhas on AMU campus. They should spare reputed educational institutions and no political activity be allowed there.’’

Interestingly, the Modi Government has filed affidavits in Supreme Court against minority character of both varisties.